The Kenyan military serving under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), has held a medical camp in Dhobley town, southern Somalia. The medical camp, held on Thursday, coincided with the start of the holy month of Ramadan and provided free health services to the community living within AMISOM’s area of responsibility.

At least 200 residents of Dhobley town and surrounding villages accessed outpatient services that included check-ups, treatment of common ailments, drug prescriptions, and medical advice. Mr. Siyad Mohamed Hassan, the town’s administrator, highlighted the high disease burden and unfilled need for public health services and requested AMISOM to extend health services to the people.

He cited the need to provide specialised inpatient services such as surgery, treatment of diseases like cancer, bone ailments and maternal health services. Siyad said, “The community needs every form of health assistance,” adding, “The need remains, and we request AMISOM to assist in whatever way.” Lt. Col. John Mnjalla, the commandant of AMISOM Level II Hospital in Dhobley led the team of military medics.

He said the medical camp enabled AMISOM Kenyan troops to treat patients in need of healthcare. The contingent also handed over a consignment of drugs and medical consumables to the management of the Dhobley General Hospital.

“AMISOM will do its best to bring relief to communities,” he said. “We had a high turn up, and we recorded over 200 patients,” said Lt. Col. Mnjalla. He also appealed to the communities to remain peaceful during the holy month of Ramadan, which is a period of fasting, prayer, reflection and supporting the less privileged in the community through acts of charity.

“My plea to our Muslim brothers and sisters, Ramadan is a holy month. Let us maintain peace during the month and after that,” he said.

Mohamud Abdikadir Salamo, whose two children received treatment thanked the AMISOM Kenyan contingent for extending much-needed medical services to the community.

“My children were prescribed drugs which they received,” he said. “As we return home, I appreciate the support by AMISOM,” said Mohamud. Ahmed Noor Sheikh Ali another patient said, “I received a free medical check-up and drugs that are not available in the town.

Thanks to Allah. I welcome (the medical camp) and request AMISOM to hold more such activities.”